Guide to Creating Local DAG Chapters
Doctors Against Genocide - Local Chapter Guide
Doctors Against Genocide (DAG) is a global organization dedicated to preventing genocide, advocating for justice, and protecting healthcare workers and patients in conflict zones. To strengthen our collective impact, we encourage the formation of local DAG chapters. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to create and maintain a local chapter while staying connected, committed, and united with the parent organization.
The Role of Local Chapters
Local chapters empower communities to take action, amplify the DAG’s mission, and ensure that efforts are tailored to address the unique needs and dynamics of each region. Here are the key reasons why developing local chapters is vital:
1. Amplifying Genocide Awareness and Prevention
Local chapters serve as critical drivers in promoting awareness and advocacy for genocide prevention. They:
- Educate communities to recognize warning signs of genocide and emphasize the importance of early intervention using DAG’s Medical Defintion of Genocide.
- Elevate conversations around genocide prevention, humanitarian advocacy, and justice to diverse audiences and stakeholders.
- Advocate for DAG’s mission to create a world free from the conditions leading to genocide, such as systemic racism, dehumanization, oppression, occupation, and apartheid.
2. Expanding Campaigns and Advocacy Efforts
Global coalitions thrive through localized action, with local chapters working to:
- Amplify DAG’s campaigns by mobilizing local communities, institutions, and policymakers.
- Develop localized advocacy initiatives, making global issues resonate within specific regional contexts.
- Strengthen DAG’s visibility and outreach, ensuring the mission connects with new audiences.
3. Tailoring Advocacy to Regional Needs
Recognizing that the impacts of genocide and humanitarian crises differ by region, chapters:
- Customize DAG’s initiatives to address unique regional challenges.
- Ensure cultural sensitivity and relevance in educational programs, advocacy, and outreach efforts.
- Represent local perspectives in global discussions, bridging the gap between regional realities and international policy.
4. Fostering Sustainable Action and Decolonizing Medicine
A sustainable future for DAG’s mission relies on community-driven efforts and systemic change. Local chapters:
- Empower communities through vigils, educational events, and advocacy campaigns to inspire sustained participation.
- Engage and amplify the voices of healthcare professionals and genocide survivors to inform advocacy and promote healing.
- Work to decolonize medicine, challenging and dismantling colonial frameworks in healthcare systems to ensure equity and justice.
Apply to start a local DAG Chapter
- Express Your Intent: Fill out the FORM BELOW to start a chapter.
- Prepare a Proposal: Submit a concise proposal that includes:
- Your Chapter's Goals: Outline what you hope to achieve as a local chapter.
- Planned Activities: Detail initial ideas for events, campaigns, and outreach efforts.
- Alignment with DAG’s Mission: Explain how your chapter’s efforts will contribute to DAG’s overarching objectives.
- Review and Guidance: DAG leadership will evaluate your proposal and provide tailored feedback, resources, and support to help you get started.
Staying United
Governance Structure for Doctors Against Genocide Chapters
To ensure consistency, alignment, and effectiveness across all chapters, Doctors Against Genocide (DAG) has established a governance structure that all chapters must follow. Adhering to this structure ensures that each chapter operates as a cohesive part of the global mission while maintaining accountability and integrity.
Core Principles of Governance
Mission Alignment
All chapter activities must align with DAG’s mission to:
- Prevent genocide.
- Protect healthcare workers.
- Advocate for justice and accountability.
- Support those impacted by conflict and atrocity.
Compliance with Guidelines
Chapters must adhere to DAG’s policies on decision-making, branding, and communications.
Leadership and Decision-Making
- Day-to-Day Decisions: Chapters can independently manage operational tasks, such as event planning and partnerships, as long as they align with DAG’s mission.
- Major Decisions: Significant actions like large campaigns or partnerships require prior approval from DAG leadership.
- Support and Consultation: Chapters are encouraged to seek guidance from DAG leadership on complex or sensitive matters.
Communication and Reporting
- Updates: Submit regular activity and financial reports to ensure transparency and receive feedback.
- Designated Contact: Appoint a Chapter Lead to maintain consistent communication with DAG leadership.
- Media Statements: All public statements must be approved by DAG leadership before release.
Accountability and Oversight
- Monitoring: DAG leadership may review chapter activities periodically to ensure mission alignment.
- Conflict Resolution: Adhere to DAG’s protocols for resolving internal disputes, with leadership support if needed.
Unified Branding and Identity
- Use official DAG branding and ensure all materials uphold DAG’s values of justice, health, and human rights.
Shared Goals and Metrics
- Align chapter objectives with DAG’s strategic goals.
- Track success using metrics such as advocacy actions, funds raised, and public engagement.
Commitment to Transparency
- Share meeting minutes, financial reports, and key decisions with DAG leadership to maintain accountability and trust.
How DAG Supports Local Chapters
- Resources and Training
- DAG provides training materials, toolkits, and resources to help chapters organize effectively.
- Leadership development programs are available to build the capacity of local chapter leaders.
- Mentorship and Guidance
- Each chapter will be assigned a mentor from DAG leadership who can offer guidance and support.
- Financial Support
- Chapters can apply for funding from DAG for specific initiatives and events.
- Recognition and Visibility
- Outstanding efforts by local chapters will be highlighted on DAG’s website and social media platforms.
- Chapters may also be invited to present their work at DAG’s annual conference.
.png/:/cr=t:0%25,l:17%25,w:66%25,h:100%25/rs=w:1209,h:549,cg:true)